Canadiens Roundup: Fowler’s Comeback, Danault’s Impact & Deadline Buzz Around the League
There’s no such thing as a quiet week in Montreal hockey, and this one’s no exception. From goaltending prospects making waves to trade deadline tremors around the league, here’s a look at what’s making headlines in Habs territory and beyond.
Jacob Fowler Grinding Toward the NHL
Jacob Fowler is putting in the work to make his case for a future in the Canadiens’ crease. The young netminder has been steadily climbing the ranks, and his commitment hasn’t gone unnoticed. Whether it’s extra time in the gym or sharpening his reads in net, Fowler is doing everything he can to prepare for the next step.
And he’s not just showing up on the ice - he’s embracing the culture, too. Fowler will be sporting a special Quebec-themed mask for the AHL All-Star Game, a nod to the province that’s shaping his professional journey.
It’s a small gesture, but one that speaks volumes about his mindset. He’s not just passing through; he’s buying in.
Danault’s Return Paying Dividends
Bringing back Philip Danault has turned out to be one of Montreal’s smartest in-season moves. His two-way game has brought balance to the lineup, and his presence in the faceoff circle has been a stabilizing force. Danault isn’t just filling a role - he’s elevating everyone around him, especially in high-pressure moments.
In a city where expectations are sky-high, Danault’s return offers a reminder of what consistency and experience can do for a team trying to find its identity. He’s not flashy, but his impact is undeniable.
Laval Rocket Under the Microscope
Pressure in Montreal doesn’t stop at the Bell Centre. The Laval Rocket, the Habs’ AHL affiliate, are feeling the heat too.
Whether it’s player development or nightly results, scrutiny follows this team just as closely. That’s life in the Canadiens’ pipeline - every move is watched, every shift evaluated.
And the roster continues to shift. Samuel Blais cleared waivers and has been assigned to Laval, adding another veteran presence to the mix.
For Blais, it’s a chance to reset and potentially carve out a new role. For Laval, it’s another piece in a constantly evolving puzzle.
A (Robotic) Trade Suggestion?
In one of the more curious developments, a robot-generated analysis recently suggested that the Canadiens need Jordan Kyrou to break their first-round playoff curse. While that’s more fantasy than reality right now, it’s worth noting that Kyrou is close with Nick Suzuki - and chemistry like that always sparks interest. Still, with no indication of actual movement, this one stays firmly in the hypothetical column.
Around the League: Trade Deadline Moves & Olympic Moments
With the 2026 NHL trade deadline approaching, front offices across the league are feeling the pressure - and Toronto is right in the thick of it. The Maple Leafs’ management faces some tough decisions, and the clock is ticking. Whether they buy, sell, or stand pat, the next few weeks could define their season.
In Pittsburgh, defenseman Caleb Jones has been handed a 20-game suspension for violating the NHL’s Performance Enhancing Substances Program. It’s a significant blow to the Penguins’ blue line depth and a stark reminder of the league’s zero-tolerance stance.
Meanwhile, the trade market is heating up. The St.
Louis Blues dealt Nick Bjugstad to the New Jersey Devils in exchange for Thomas Bordeleau - a move that gives both teams something to work with down the stretch. And in a headline-grabbing deal, the Los Angeles Kings landed Artemi Panarin from the New York Rangers, locking him in with a two-year deal.
That’s a major swing for L.A., and it signals they’re going all-in.
Back on the Olympic front, the NHL’s best are preparing to represent their countries on the world stage. For some, it’s a first taste of Olympic glory.
For others, it’s a return to familiar ground. David Pastrnak and Leon Draisaitl have been named flag-bearers for their respective nations - a high honor for two of the league’s brightest stars.
And for young dreamers like David Elford, the Olympics serve as inspiration. He’s got his sights set on one day dropping the puck in the NHL, and stories like his remind us that every pro career starts with a dream.
Whether it’s trade chatter, Olympic pride, or a goalie grinding away in the minors, hockey’s never short on storylines - especially in Montreal. With the deadline approaching and the postseason picture starting to take shape, buckle up. It’s going to be a wild ride.